Columbia Math Undergraduate Summer Research (CMUSR)
The Mathematics Department offers a ten week summer research program for undergraduate students with a strong interest in pure mathematics. The program is designed primarily for rising juniors and seniors majoring in mathematics or closely related fields.
Participants work in small groups and collaborate closely with faculty members and graduate student mentors on focused research projects. The goal of the program is to give students first hand experience with mathematical research, including reading advanced material, exploring open problems, and communicating mathematical ideas clearly.
The department also offers a separate summer research program focused on mathematical modeling. For information about that program, please visit the Columbia Summer Undergraduate Research Experiences in Mathematical Modeling (CSUREMM) page. Applications for the 2026 CSUREMM program are now open.
Eligibility
CMUSR is open to continuing undergraduate students at Columbia University and Barnard College, regardless of U.S. residency.
The program is not open to:
- graduating seniors
- graduate students
- students who have already earned or will earn a bachelor’s degree by August 31, 2026
- students not enrolled full time at Columbia or Barnard
Barnard students must also submit a separate application through the Barnard Summer Research Institute (SRI). The SRI application deadline is March 4, 2026.
Program Dates
May 26 – July 31, 2026
CMUSR is a full time, in person summer program. Participants are expected to be on campus for the full duration of the program and available for all scheduled activities. Final student presentations will take place during the last week of the program.
Stipend and Housing
Participants receive:
- a stipend of $3,500
- residential housing for the duration of the program (05/26 – 07/31/2026)
Because of the intensity of the program, participants should plan to devote their full attention to CMUSR and should not have other academic or work commitments during this period.
Research Project
Project details and project leads for Summer 2026 will be announced.
Application Materials
Applicants will be asked to submit:
- a one page CV or résumé
- a one page statement describing research interests and motivation for participating
- an up to date unofficial university transcript
- one faculty reference letter
Barnard students must also submit an application through the Barnard SRI Program.
Application Timeline
Applications for CMUSR will open on February 1, 2026.
The application deadline is March 4, 2026, at 11:59 PM (EST).
Contact
For questions about the program, please contact George Dragomir.
Follow us on Twitter @ColumbiaMath
Information about past years’ programs is available here.
The 2026 CMUSR program is made possible with support from the Mathematics Department.
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